Episode Summary
In this episode, I sit down with Alisa Gracheva, a psychotherapist specializing in trauma healing. We dive deep into the impact of betrayal on the mind, body, and spirit, exploring the commonalities between different forms of trauma and how they shape our emotional and physiological well-being. Alisa shares her personal journey—moving to a new country alone at 18, experiencing an abusive relationship, and ultimately discovering the tools to heal and thrive.
We discuss the importance of meaning-making in healing, the role of spirituality in recovery, and how to shift from victimhood to empowerment. If you’re struggling to move forward, this episode will give you insights, strategies, and encouragement to break free from old patterns and step into a stronger, more aligned version of yourself.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode
- The common effects of betrayal and trauma on the body and mind
- How Alisa’s personal experiences shaped her approach to healing
- The power of finding meaning in painful experiences
- Why resilience is built through shifting your narrative
- How spirituality and self-awareness play a role in recovery
- The importance of changing your environment to create new patterns
- How to identify red flags and set stronger boundaries
- Practical steps to rewire your thinking and build self-trust
Key Takeaways
- Betrayal & Trauma Impact More Than Just Emotions – Trauma affects your physiology, emotions, and even spirituality. Recognizing these layers is key to healing.
- Meaning-Making is Essential for Healing – Viewing your pain from a broader perspective (instead of staying stuck in the story) allows growth and resilience.
- Your Environment Shapes Your Healing – Changing your physical, emotional, and mental surroundings helps break old cycles and rewire your thinking.
- Boundaries Are Essential – Setting boundaries isn’t just about others—it’s about holding yourself accountable for your healing process.
- Healing Requires Discomfort & Action – True transformation happens when you push past familiarity and challenge yourself to grow, even when it’s uncomfortable.
Quotes from the Episode
- “We cannot solve a problem with the same mind that created it.”
- “One painful experience shouldn’t define your entire life. You are more than what happened to you.”
- “Healing is uncomfortable, but staying stuck is far worse.”
- “The people around you will change as you change—some will grow with you, and others will fall away.”
Alisa Gracheva
Dr. Debi & Betrayal Trauma Resources
- The PBT Institute: Break free from the pain of betrayal and find safety, love, and trust again.
- For the betrayed – Reclaim: Heal from your betrayal and take your life back.
- For the betrayer – Rebuild: Heal yourself and help heal the heart you broke.
- Take the Post Betrayal Syndrome Quiz – Post-Betrayal Syndrome Quiz
- Want to become a Certified PBT Coach/Practitioner? Check out our FREE masterclass here.
Take Action
- Reflect on how betrayal has impacted you emotionally, physically, and mentally.
- Identify one limiting belief and reframe it into an empowering narrative.
- Make a small environmental change (new routine, new people, new mindset) to shift your healing process.
- Set one clear boundary to protect your energy and growth.
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